Genicular Nerve Blocks and Radiofrequency Ablation
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Genicular Nerve Blocks
Genicular nerve blocks are a type of medical procedure that can provide relief for individuals who suffer from chronic knee pain. This procedure involves the injection of a local anesthetic and steroid medication into the genicular nerves that supply the knee joint, which can temporarily interrupt pain signals and alleviate inflammation.
For patients who have not responded well to other treatments such as medication, physical therapy, or knee surgery, genicular nerve blocks can be a safe and effective alternative. The procedure is minimally invasive and can be performed on an outpatient basis with minimal recovery time.
By providing pain relief and improving knee function and mobility, genicular nerve blocks can enhance the patient’s overall quality of life. Additionally, if a patient responds well to genicular nerve blocks and experiences a significant amount of pain relief, they may be a viable candidate for the genicular nerve radiofrequency ablation procedure.
How does a vertebral augmentation procedure work?
Depending on the specific needs of the patient, the process might look slightly different, but overall, the objective of a vertebral augmentation is to strengthen the spinal column from within. This procedure involves the injection of bone cement into the affected bone within the spinal column, also known as a vertebra. The bone cement hardens quickly, which can stabilize the fracture and restore the vertebra's height, effectively reducing pain and increasing mobility for the patient. A vertebral augmentation is minimally invasive, meaning that it requires only a small incision in the skin and is performed on an outpatient basis, which allows patients to return home on the same day of the procedure
Genicular Nerve Radiofrequency Ablation
Genicular nerve radiofrequency ablation is a minimally invasive medical procedure that can provide long-term relief for patients with chronic knee pain. This procedure involves using heat to disrupt the function of the genicular nerves that supply the knee joint by destroying the nerve endings that transmit pain signals from the knee joint to the brain.
During the procedure, a healthcare provider uses a special needle to deliver radiofrequency energy to the genicular nerves. This energy heats up the nerve tissue and disrupts its ability to transmit pain signals. The procedure is usually performed on an outpatient basis and patients can typically return to their normal activities within a few days.
Genicular nerve radiofrequency ablation can provide long-lasting pain relief for up to several months to a year or longer. It can be an effective treatment option for patients who have not responded well to other treatments such as physical therapy, medication, or knee surgery.
If you’ve been struggling with chronic knee pain, relief is on the way! Our care team at Apex Interventional Pain & Spine in Coppell, TX would be happy to help. Let’s talk about genicular nerve blocks and/or genicular nerve radiofrequency ablation, and whether or not they’re right for you.
